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Aspirin is one of the most well-known medicines in history, a staple of medicine cabinets for decades. For many people, it’s been used to alleviate pains and aches and to prevent heart problems for years. However, recently, old guidance about taking aspirin on a daily basis has changed. There are several reasons behind this shift in thinking.
1 — Aspirin Can Reduce Inflammation
Aspirin became the first over-the-counter pain medication and fever reliever in 1899. It works by inhibiting prostaglandins, which control aches and inflammation. It’s a NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), which is similar to Advil and Motrin.
2 — Aspirin May Reduce Your Risk of Heart Attack or Stroke
If you’ve had a stroke or heart attack, your doctor might prescribe you a low dose of aspirin for you to use as a preventative measure. However, unless your doctor advises it, you shouldn’t take daily aspirin. Continue reading to discover why this is the case.
3 — Aspirin Might Increase Bleeding Risk
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recently changed its advice on taking daily aspirin, which was formerly recommended to reduce the chance of heart disease. Taking daily aspirin, however, can raise the risk of significant bleeding, particularly in the intestines, stomach, and brain. The USPSTF has changed its position on aspirin use for people over 60. Today, the organization no longer recommends that individuals older than 60 take daily aspirin, and that they do so on a case-by-case basis. The panel’s advice does not apply to those who have been taking aspirin daily or have had a heart attack previously. If you’ve been taking aspirin every day, talk with your physician before making any adjustments to your regimen.
4 — Aspirin may Cause Stomach Ulcers
Aspirin can irritate the stomach’s mucosa, producing discomfort, ulcers, and bleeding. People who are older, have stomach ulcers, consume alcohol, or use blood-thinning medications are more at risk.
5 — Aspirin Can cause Serious Illness in Children and Teens
According to experts, aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers recovering from chickenpox or influenza-like symptoms. Reye’s Syndrome, a serious disease that causes brain and liver swelling, can develop as a result of aspirin usage. Children and teenagers who are recovering from a viral infection are most susceptible.
